I can’t believe it’s already August! While summer is flying by faster than a two week vacation, it’s not too late to stock up on some sexy swimwear. This Scallop Bandeau Bikini look is everywhere this summer and I’m loving it. Luckily, this beachside look is available at every price under the sun. So dive in and get your end of summer shopping on. A new bathing suit is the perfect excuse to book another vacation or crash someone’s pool party (not that you needed one).
Not only is it bikini season, it’s pool party season. In other words, summer is for partying and barbecuing. As every gal knows, summertime occasions deserve an incredible outfit. For your upcoming poolside picnic, you’re going to need the following to make an outstanding fashion statement.
Red Sunnies
Summer is the season for sunglasses. Whether you’re flaunting a boho floral sundress or striped bikini, a rockin’ pair of sunnies is essential — and red is a trend that will really make an impression. Fire engine red gives that pop of color for a bold, yet retro look, especially during the sultry temps of summer. As soon as you throw on those ruby red sunglasses, you’re a carefree gal ready for a cool Corona while lounging poolside and indulging in a veggie burger. For a classic vintage look, go for a pair of Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer in red or be playful with a pair of cherry, over-sized, flirty sunglasses from Oakley.
Straw Hat
Throw on a trendy panama, wide-brimmed fedora or classic sun hat to not only look like a fashionista, but to shade your face from the sun. Sun protection is always en vogue. Stay even cooler by twisting your hair into a side fishtail braid or pulling it into a low ponytail. Accessorizing your laid-back picnic outfit with a straw hat gives that little extra urban flare.
Denim & Shorts
Since it’s summer and a poolside picnic, the shorter the shorts, the better. Classic khaki shorts, rolled jeans or distressed denim cutoffs are all within the dress code for an afternoon summer barbecue. For this season, denim with denim is far from being a fashion crime. Pair your shorts with an oversized denim chambray, sleeveless denim collared shirt or colored tank with an opened denim vest. For an all-American denim look, People magazine’s fashion experts recommend Forever 21, Silver Jeans, Madewell, and American Eagle.
Plaid Button Up
Nothing says perfect picnic style more than a checkered button up, especially in red or blue. A plaid blouse worn with short denim cutoffs or a preppy skirt creates that fashion dichotomy of sexy edginess and clean-cut prep. Of course, no pattern is more picnic-appropriate than a red-and-white block print that stylishly mimics a vintage picnic tablecloth.
Striped Tank
Still looking for more fashion alternatives than a denim or plaid shirt for your upcoming poolside soiree? Loose-fitting striped tanks are comfortable and breezy, yet trendy enough to still make a style statement. StyleMint.com, a T-shirt collection designed by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, designs an array of striped tanks, such as the over-sized Graham racerback tank in grey or taupe or the teal and ivory striped peplum Carey Top tank with a gold zipper back and ruffled flare.
Tote
Along with your pleasant smile and picnic baked good, a beach tote must also be in tow. You can’t tell where this barbecue soiree will go, so you must be prepared with sunscreen, your bathing suit, a beach towel, a case for your VisionDirect contact lenses, bronzer, hairspray, and a sweater to put on for after your late-night swim.
